Gordon Banks has defended England manager Roy Hodgson over the London Underground gaffe which saw him reveal news of Rio Ferdinand’s international omission to members of the public.

The World Cup-winning goalkeeper conceded Sir Alf Ramsey would not have been caught out in such a way but argued strongly that the conversation should have been kept private.

The 74-year-old, who won 73 caps for his country, suggested Hodgson’s use of the Tube made a refreshing change to modern footballers’ means of transport but that he would likely be wary of doing the same in future.

Banks said: ‘This business with the Tube – that man should never have told the Press what Hodgson said. That was a private conversation.

‘That man’s asked him something in confidence and he’s done that? No, I’m sorry I think that’s ridiculous; being on the Tube, mixing with the people, and then getting that done to him. It’s not on.’

Banks said he agreed with Hodgson’s belief that Ferdinand does not command a place in the England starting line-up and would be a detrimental squad inclusion for the World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Poland.

‘I don’t think he’s been playing as well as he has,’ Banks added. ‘The manager has to pick the players he feels is going to be strong enough to represent England.

‘Poland is going to be difficult but we can only hope that England hit some form and we get through the group.’

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